GARY MEGSON believes Bolton were not taking a step backwards in asking Newcastle to loan them their former talisman Kevin Nolan for the rest of the season.

Nolan has struggled at St James’ Park since leaving the Reebok for “better things” and is understood to be prepared to build his career back up again at his old haunt.

Newcastle seem unlikely to countenance such a move after Nolan netted in the last two games, but Megson said: “We never wanted Kevin to leave in the first place. We’re just seeing if there’s the possibility of him coming here on a season-long loan.

“It’s just an enquiry at this stage. Kevin’s in the team there, they’re doing well, so we’re just waiting for a response. I don’t think it would be a step back for him or us.”